ARE MATHEMATICAL-MODELS USEFUL FOR UNDERSTANDING WATER ACIDIFICATION

Computer models play an integral part in the effort to understand the complicated processes which affect ecosystems subjected to acid precipitation. Current research work using the Birkenes model attempts to improve the evaluation of the present model structure and subjects the program to a stringent verification process. Simulation results for years which are not included in, and vary considerably from, the calibration period are described. The importance of model validation is emphasized. The simulations, though in general in fair agreement with the observations, are still deficient in some respects and possible model improvements are discussed. In addition, problems which appeared during model validation are also found during verification procedures. However, computer simulations have provided the chemist with a powerful tool for evaluating current thinking regarding chemical processes involved in environmental problems such as acid precipitation. © 1990.